Google has introduced an earthquake alert system for Android devices in India.
What does it do?
It makes use of smartphone sensors such as accelerators that act as small seismometers that detect tremors.
The system was developed with consultation from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Seismology Center (NSC).
It will send out early earthquake alerts for Android users in an area that is likely to be hit.
It will be available in local Indian languages as well.
Types of alerts
There are two types of alerts: Be Aware and Take Action.
“Be Aware” alerts are issued to users experiencing MMI 3 & 4 shaking during an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 or greater.
What if the device is on DND or Silent mode?
It displays the alert on the device screen but doesn’t play any sound if it is on Do Not Disturb or in silent mode.
However, if users are experiencing MMI 5+ shaking during an earthquake of 4.5 magnitude the alert will bypass notification settings, including Do No Disturb, and play a loud sound.
Take Action
The alert also suggests what action to take such as taking cover under a table.
Google said it detects a potential earthquake through several Android phones noting a seismic activity in an area which then sends alerts many seconds before the tremors start.
In 2020 the company introduced Android Earthquake Alerts for people in California.
Device requirements
It is applicable only for those devices running Android 5 or later and with Wi-Fi or cellular data connectivity.
Users also need to have the location settings enabled on their devices.
They can activate the feature by navigating to Settings > Safety & emergency 
Alternatively, they can also enable earthquake alerts through Settings > Location > Advanced > Earthquake alerts.
Flood alerts
Google also issues AI-powered flood alerts to all Indian regions.
It started the pilot program in Patna in 2018 and later expanded flood alerts to all of India in 2020.
